PM Charlot Salwai is today on Maewo for the launch of the important telemedicine network pioneered by US Peace Corps volunteer Alexis Cullen. This will bring remote East Maewo’s Naviso village into contact with the main clinic in the west and with Lolowai and Luganville hospitals. OGCIO, the Health Ministry, Telsat and Kacific Broadband as well as Maewo Telecommunications have all had significant roles to play. Maewo’s Dr Basil Leodoro has played a linking role from the Northern District Hospital. The life of an expectant mother was saved during the installation of the facility as it was being tested. (Daily Post)

As the events and speeches on Children’s Day are sill occupying air time, information concerning Independence Day Sunday is beginning to fill the media. There will be another holiday on Monday as there was this week for youngsters to enable a day off for everyone. Port Vila’s and Luganville’s Independence events open today. The Vanuatu Police Force yesterday launched Operation India Alpha to provide protection to everyone during the Independence celebrations. The Deputy Commissioner (Operations) Willie Ben Kalo says the Police will work together with community leaders such as chiefs and women and youth group office bearers to ensure the anniversary passes in peace. (Radio Vanuatu)

The young man who took the life of a 9-month-old baby girl has been sentenced to four years in prison. Judge Aru started his announcement of the judgement by pointing out the seriousness of the offence which could carry a sentence of 20 years imprisonment. Doctors concluded his killing of the child was done in anger. Certain attempts to amend the offence have already taken place. However, Judge Aru pointed out that swapping another child from the offender’s family is a custom which must be stopped as it contravenes the rights of the child, the victim. (Daily Post)

The Director-General of the Department of Finance, Letlet August, suspended in April, has been reinstated and, following an appeal, seen his reinstatement cancelled. The Supreme Court still has to make a ruling. A pre-trial hearing was set for 4 August but the Appeals Court noted urgency and called on the Supreme Court to treat the matter with speed.